Wouldn't it be so nice to be able to have continual fellowship with the Lord? How great would it be to walk all day, everyday in His company and regardless of the external things, we would have the Spirit just beeming from our hearts. Joyous, celebritory, loving fellowship with the Lord.
Unfortunately I have not gained that yet. I have not allowed my trust in the Lord to overtake every part of my mind, body and soul and therefore I spend time walking in the world with the perception that I am alone. I wonder away with my thoughts to things that my mind should not think about or I place in my heart fear of man. Other times I just dwell on the circumstances that I am in and fixate on the fact that "I don't want to be here" when in reality this is where there Lord has me now.
Enoch walked with God, so did Adam for a while. One man found and stayed on the right path and the other didn't. Oh how I can't stand being like Adam! How about you? Here we see example after example of the Lords glory in our lives and in the Bible but yet we, like Adam decide to step of the path and follow our own trail at times. "Hey God, I know that I just saw you work a tremendous miracle in my life, but I think I will venture off a bit and see what is on the other side of the fence." How this must just frustrate God.
I see a young Muslim man on Saturday night come and sit with us in prayer and fellowship and then the next day I allow myself to focus on worldly things. The funniest part of it is that I know that it is happening and I just don't ever really get away from it. I go through the hole day asking God to be with me but almost only asking out of obligation and not out of Faith. Like I don't really want the bad stuff to end.
This today is weighing on me. Obviously, huh? I had a boss one time describe to me that I created my own turmoil. That I, because of my personality, liked to be under pressure so I caused my own things to have that pressure in my life. I wonder if that is what I do with my walk with the Lord? Isn't that a terrible thought. That I would purposely or knowingly move away just to have the experience of coming back. Nice what the mind will cause you to think about.
Do we see this similarly with the Disciples. They stand and watch a blind man healed and in the next breath question the Lord about who he is. Wow. They couldn't even do it for a few minutes sometimes so what should I expect from myself? So God gave us more examples of how what he see's in us in these Disciples. The lesson being that we will, I guess, move in and out of this walk with God.
Have Faith, Michael. Be strong. Trust in the Lord and He will see you through. Give it all to God and His Glory will shine through. All of this is so true but because human are failed and because we live in this broken world, we will suffer simple things sometimes. We will have days when our minds just don't let us move to Him. We will have circumstances that hamper our devotions or raise our emotions. We will have days when we just can't get ourselves into the Fellowship that He offers. It stinks! But the good news is that I know He is still there waiting for me.
One day I hope to be as Enoch. One day I will just vanish as the weight of this world is lifted from me as my heart becomes completely devoted and focussed on the Lord Jesus Christ. Oh what a day would be like to see nothing but Him standing before me.
Lord, smack me please! Cause me to look directly into your eyes and see your goodness, your righteousness. Let me see only the Hope that you offer and not the despair of my worldy desires and thoughts. Let me, sooner rather than later, be as Enoch and walk with you. Let me be released of this pain of this temporary hell caused by my careless seperation from you. Let me love you.
First time in Afghanistan as a civilian contractor under a one year contract. I have been brought here by God and intend to speak the Gospel of Christ however I can.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Small Community Becomes Bigger.
Small community, small community, small community! I continue to see the power in coming together as believers, in the name of Jesus, and lifting each other up. There is also power in the wittness of that the fellowship of believers that those around see.
During our move into our temporary tent some changes occurred. We had two trents move at one time. With this, some of the Expats decided to take up in one tent and put the Foriegn Nationals into the other tent. With this Roberto and I now share a common space instead of Joel and Charles, a Kenyan man now is in the tent with us. Chandel remained across from me so that we could fellowship in the evenings.
The last few nights, with the disruptions, Chandel and I have been unable to sit and do our Bible study togather. Last night I was in the tent for about an hour before Chandel came in. I have been reading "Bonhoeffer" and had it set in my mind that I would get in bed at eight. Saturday is one of the evenings that I have free so bed is always a good option on those occassions. Anyway, At right about eight, Chandel came in, "Hello Sir! Give me a couple of minutes and I will be back so we can sit together. We have not done so in two days." He grabbed his towel and went for a shower.
Well my plans have changed I guess, so I continued to read waiting for him. Just after one of the Indian men that is also in our tent came by looking for Chandel. I mentioned that he was in the shower and should be back in a little while and he walked back up to his bunk. Just a few minutes later, Charles came to my bed, "Maan uf Gaad, I will git my Bible and come set wit you". Charles has in the past been to prayer with us and is another Christian brother. so off he went and returned with Bible in hand.
I told him that Chandel would join us. That everynight we sit together and fellowship together. We were just two but now we would be three. As chandel returned I expressed that we were now three men. That our study was growing and that this was a blessing for us all. He, as he does, just slightly nodded his head, expressionless.
So Matthew 8, we all truned there to begin. As we did so the other man, Chandels friend, came to us and asked to sit. He did so on the end of the bed and I asked him if he had a Bible. He responded that he only had a Koran, no Bible. Politely I stated that that was ok and that if he would like to join us he could for our fellowship. He smiled, and stayed.
Now realize that inside I start freaking out again. I know that I should get used to this by now but I am not. This changes the dynamic of the evening and now I have to be conscious of the manner in which I teach and talk. As I have expressed in earlier Blogs, Muslims culturally don't understand some of the concepts of the Bible. this doesn't change our message, only the way that you state it. So after a brief prayer in my head, off I go.
We start with prayer, which Charles leads. Kenyans love to hold hands when they pray so we all join together as Charles prays softly. I always like the prayers of my Kenyan brothers, it is different than how I pray and what I am used to. It has a rythm to it. He ends with "In Jesus' name I pray, amen". Amen!
We studied only a few of the verses. I usually read the word and then verse by verse give commentary, as best I can to its meaning and significance to us as believers. I also have to fill in the questions that come from Chandel generally not knowing the backround of the information. In this instance, with the new audience, I was trying also to give meaning as our Muslim guest would undrstand. For instance, "Victory over sin" rather than "Paying for sin" things such as this. I was also nervous like I said before which didn't help.
As we went on I opened the discussion a bit to the others. Chandel has few words and tends to very easily summarize the information back into a few sentences. Chandel asked a question about evil spirits and their exisistance in our lives. Charles from this spoke about Adam and Eve and sin and what that means in the world today. The conversation as good and our friend sat and listened intently. We went to prayer then as it was just after 21:00 an it was time for bed.
As we got up the Muslim man asked me, "Sir, do you have a book about Jesus that I could read? I do not have one and I would like one." Yes, um, I do. Hold on, yes." I was now searching through my stack of books for the Book of John that I have. At first I could not remember where it was as the move had caused me to pack things up. I know I don't have much stuff, how could I lose a book. After a few minutes I was able to find it and walked it up to his bed with a New Believers pocket Bible. I sat for a minute and explained which to read to know Jesus better.
Praise God. Here I was nervous about what I was saying and how the content of the discussion would be recieved by our new friend, and everything was fine. He had in some way connected to the fellowship and wanted to know more. The Spirit had moved in some way last night and this man now wanted to know Jesus better. I say again, Praise God.
This has to be the third time where somebody from the tent has sat with me and other believers during our prayer and fellowship and then asked about or began to seek Jesus Christ. In all cases all that we did was invite the individual to sit with at this time of fellowship. The rest is then in the hands of the Holy Spirit.
It is excilirating to see this happen. It is an absolute thrill to see the happening in front of your own eyes. You must believe that you can be used by God when these opportunities present themselves to you. You must be ready to invite your neighbors and friends to your home for your small groups. You must create times for others to see your fellowship. Small community works. Try it! Let your small community become bigger.
Lord, let us use our lives as wittness to you to those around us who are seeking. Let our lives be used by you to reach these people. Let us not think of our own fears but be assured in your power to see us through. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
During our move into our temporary tent some changes occurred. We had two trents move at one time. With this, some of the Expats decided to take up in one tent and put the Foriegn Nationals into the other tent. With this Roberto and I now share a common space instead of Joel and Charles, a Kenyan man now is in the tent with us. Chandel remained across from me so that we could fellowship in the evenings.
The last few nights, with the disruptions, Chandel and I have been unable to sit and do our Bible study togather. Last night I was in the tent for about an hour before Chandel came in. I have been reading "Bonhoeffer" and had it set in my mind that I would get in bed at eight. Saturday is one of the evenings that I have free so bed is always a good option on those occassions. Anyway, At right about eight, Chandel came in, "Hello Sir! Give me a couple of minutes and I will be back so we can sit together. We have not done so in two days." He grabbed his towel and went for a shower.
Well my plans have changed I guess, so I continued to read waiting for him. Just after one of the Indian men that is also in our tent came by looking for Chandel. I mentioned that he was in the shower and should be back in a little while and he walked back up to his bunk. Just a few minutes later, Charles came to my bed, "Maan uf Gaad, I will git my Bible and come set wit you". Charles has in the past been to prayer with us and is another Christian brother. so off he went and returned with Bible in hand.
I told him that Chandel would join us. That everynight we sit together and fellowship together. We were just two but now we would be three. As chandel returned I expressed that we were now three men. That our study was growing and that this was a blessing for us all. He, as he does, just slightly nodded his head, expressionless.
So Matthew 8, we all truned there to begin. As we did so the other man, Chandels friend, came to us and asked to sit. He did so on the end of the bed and I asked him if he had a Bible. He responded that he only had a Koran, no Bible. Politely I stated that that was ok and that if he would like to join us he could for our fellowship. He smiled, and stayed.
Now realize that inside I start freaking out again. I know that I should get used to this by now but I am not. This changes the dynamic of the evening and now I have to be conscious of the manner in which I teach and talk. As I have expressed in earlier Blogs, Muslims culturally don't understand some of the concepts of the Bible. this doesn't change our message, only the way that you state it. So after a brief prayer in my head, off I go.
We start with prayer, which Charles leads. Kenyans love to hold hands when they pray so we all join together as Charles prays softly. I always like the prayers of my Kenyan brothers, it is different than how I pray and what I am used to. It has a rythm to it. He ends with "In Jesus' name I pray, amen". Amen!
We studied only a few of the verses. I usually read the word and then verse by verse give commentary, as best I can to its meaning and significance to us as believers. I also have to fill in the questions that come from Chandel generally not knowing the backround of the information. In this instance, with the new audience, I was trying also to give meaning as our Muslim guest would undrstand. For instance, "Victory over sin" rather than "Paying for sin" things such as this. I was also nervous like I said before which didn't help.
As we went on I opened the discussion a bit to the others. Chandel has few words and tends to very easily summarize the information back into a few sentences. Chandel asked a question about evil spirits and their exisistance in our lives. Charles from this spoke about Adam and Eve and sin and what that means in the world today. The conversation as good and our friend sat and listened intently. We went to prayer then as it was just after 21:00 an it was time for bed.
As we got up the Muslim man asked me, "Sir, do you have a book about Jesus that I could read? I do not have one and I would like one." Yes, um, I do. Hold on, yes." I was now searching through my stack of books for the Book of John that I have. At first I could not remember where it was as the move had caused me to pack things up. I know I don't have much stuff, how could I lose a book. After a few minutes I was able to find it and walked it up to his bed with a New Believers pocket Bible. I sat for a minute and explained which to read to know Jesus better.
Praise God. Here I was nervous about what I was saying and how the content of the discussion would be recieved by our new friend, and everything was fine. He had in some way connected to the fellowship and wanted to know more. The Spirit had moved in some way last night and this man now wanted to know Jesus better. I say again, Praise God.
This has to be the third time where somebody from the tent has sat with me and other believers during our prayer and fellowship and then asked about or began to seek Jesus Christ. In all cases all that we did was invite the individual to sit with at this time of fellowship. The rest is then in the hands of the Holy Spirit.
It is excilirating to see this happen. It is an absolute thrill to see the happening in front of your own eyes. You must believe that you can be used by God when these opportunities present themselves to you. You must be ready to invite your neighbors and friends to your home for your small groups. You must create times for others to see your fellowship. Small community works. Try it! Let your small community become bigger.
Lord, let us use our lives as wittness to you to those around us who are seeking. Let our lives be used by you to reach these people. Let us not think of our own fears but be assured in your power to see us through. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Adapting
Well I was able to settle in a bit to the new living conditions. The tent is the same size as the last one that we were in but it is not in as good as shape as the other. You all probably can understand that anytime you change or move it feels different, no matter how hard you try to keep things the same.
The electrical system is different also. Instead of nice incandescent lighting at each bed we have a row of long flourescent tube lighting down my side of the tent. You can turn them on individually however the light is industrial and disruptive to the eye. There is no way to just light your area, too bright! The outlets, as I found out after a few light bulbs blew in my lamp, is 220 v. This was contrary to what we were told when we moved. So off to the Afghan PX at 20:00 last night to by some 220 bulbs. Unfortunately, only flourescent bulbs so now I have a choice of big flourescent lighting or little flourescent lighting. Ahgg!
I did get my clothes out onto my new little shelving unit. It fits what I need it to fit, the essentials. My books, toiletries and the few clothes that I have. By the way, I have found that having just a few pants and few shirts makes life a whole lot easier. I don't have to stand in a closet and stare as I try to find something that works for the day. Actually, I get dressed in the dark so most days I don't know even my color selection until I get into some light.
I also got to finally take a shower. I know that sounds gross, it was a little, but with the move and not having my clothes unpacked it just didn't work out correct. The thing with the showers is that right now the only ones that offer hot water are up near where my old tent was. Not exactly convienient when you are walking in flip flops and shorts. They are working on this issue however and at some point it will be fixed.
It is amazing to me how much I can adapt. It takes me a few days most of the time but eventually I get it, I get used to the changes. As you look back through my blogs you see this theme over and over again. External disruption breeds internal disruption. You also see over and over again that being focussed, settling the mind and working with the external disruptions will allow us peace.
Have a marvelous Saturday.
Lord, be our focal point during lifes disruptions. Guide us through these situations, through lifes changes so that we more and more learn to rely on you. You are the way Lord, in everything.
The electrical system is different also. Instead of nice incandescent lighting at each bed we have a row of long flourescent tube lighting down my side of the tent. You can turn them on individually however the light is industrial and disruptive to the eye. There is no way to just light your area, too bright! The outlets, as I found out after a few light bulbs blew in my lamp, is 220 v. This was contrary to what we were told when we moved. So off to the Afghan PX at 20:00 last night to by some 220 bulbs. Unfortunately, only flourescent bulbs so now I have a choice of big flourescent lighting or little flourescent lighting. Ahgg!
I did get my clothes out onto my new little shelving unit. It fits what I need it to fit, the essentials. My books, toiletries and the few clothes that I have. By the way, I have found that having just a few pants and few shirts makes life a whole lot easier. I don't have to stand in a closet and stare as I try to find something that works for the day. Actually, I get dressed in the dark so most days I don't know even my color selection until I get into some light.
I also got to finally take a shower. I know that sounds gross, it was a little, but with the move and not having my clothes unpacked it just didn't work out correct. The thing with the showers is that right now the only ones that offer hot water are up near where my old tent was. Not exactly convienient when you are walking in flip flops and shorts. They are working on this issue however and at some point it will be fixed.
It is amazing to me how much I can adapt. It takes me a few days most of the time but eventually I get it, I get used to the changes. As you look back through my blogs you see this theme over and over again. External disruption breeds internal disruption. You also see over and over again that being focussed, settling the mind and working with the external disruptions will allow us peace.
Have a marvelous Saturday.
Lord, be our focal point during lifes disruptions. Guide us through these situations, through lifes changes so that we more and more learn to rely on you. You are the way Lord, in everything.
Nnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn.....
So we moved yesterday and because I couldn't take my desk I was not able to unpack. My intention was to build a little shelving unit to put my clothes on but the carpenters were on the East side all day and therefore I could get any tools to use. When I arrive at the tent I usually change and then sit with Chandel to do our nightly Bible Study. This ran directly into the time I leave to go to prayer and then prayer lasted until 10:30 so it ended up bieng just a late night for me.
When I finally got into bed, 10:55 all I could hear was the drone of the massive generator outside the new tent. It is just a constant low drone... NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN
Something like that only worse because I am trying to sleep. You know how that is, things are worse at 11:00 when you are laying in bed. All night long, not stopping. NNNNNNNNNNNNNN.
Well I feel today as if I just starred at the bottom of the top bunk all night long. Now I know I had some sleep but I don't think that it was any good because today I am defensless. I have a stuck front gate and the enemy is standing on the draw bridge. Does that make sense? Anyway, over and over again things running through my mind. Itchy eyes, and my skin crawling and incoherant thoughts running through my head.
The worst of this is that I was convicted about just passing over the cards and things that Catherine and others have send in the care packages. I had this feeling that I didn't recognbize the love that she was relaying with each item. That I had become more interested in the fact that the box arrived and that I had new stuff. This seems trivial, but try to do it when you are 6500 miles away and have the difference of 8.5 hours of time. Not easy to just roll over and say that you are sorry for not reponding to something accordingly to the one most important thing on this planet for you.
So I wait now. I have sent an email and now I am putting it in the Blog. I feel as if I have messed way up and that I can't do anything about it. The reality is, that Catherine will not really react anywhere near as the feelings that I have may think she will. This is the trickery of the mind. This however is the reality of my day right now.
Catherine, when you get to this part stop and think of me for a minute. I love you so dearly and I am sorry.
Men, stop for a minute and think of your wife. Give her a hug, touch her hand and tell her that you love her.
Ok, so let me move on from here as I am crying and sometimes it is embarassing as my people are all around me. They know when I am writing because of it. I cry, ok. Alot.
So yesterday, we found out that Phil, the Chaplins Assistant is being called back to another Unit for three months. He will be going to another base to work. The good news is that he will have time to work on an Online Degree to become a Chaplin. Praise God. The bad news is that he will be missed by all of us. He is a fine young man and my friend. He may not know it but he has been a Chaplin for me several times over the last few months.
An interesting thing happened, thanks God, I posted yesterday afternoon this on my status on Face Book. "a candle loses nothing by lighting another candle." He is not a friend on Facebook, and last night as we discussed his move he stated the same quote in regards to how he sees this move. Coincidence? Praise God.
So, just some prayer request for me. You can guess what they are. Also for Justin, the Soldier who is seeking God. And for my family, that they just go to Jesus for all of their needs.
Bless you all.
When I finally got into bed, 10:55 all I could hear was the drone of the massive generator outside the new tent. It is just a constant low drone... NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN
Something like that only worse because I am trying to sleep. You know how that is, things are worse at 11:00 when you are laying in bed. All night long, not stopping. NNNNNNNNNNNNNN.
Well I feel today as if I just starred at the bottom of the top bunk all night long. Now I know I had some sleep but I don't think that it was any good because today I am defensless. I have a stuck front gate and the enemy is standing on the draw bridge. Does that make sense? Anyway, over and over again things running through my mind. Itchy eyes, and my skin crawling and incoherant thoughts running through my head.
The worst of this is that I was convicted about just passing over the cards and things that Catherine and others have send in the care packages. I had this feeling that I didn't recognbize the love that she was relaying with each item. That I had become more interested in the fact that the box arrived and that I had new stuff. This seems trivial, but try to do it when you are 6500 miles away and have the difference of 8.5 hours of time. Not easy to just roll over and say that you are sorry for not reponding to something accordingly to the one most important thing on this planet for you.
So I wait now. I have sent an email and now I am putting it in the Blog. I feel as if I have messed way up and that I can't do anything about it. The reality is, that Catherine will not really react anywhere near as the feelings that I have may think she will. This is the trickery of the mind. This however is the reality of my day right now.
Catherine, when you get to this part stop and think of me for a minute. I love you so dearly and I am sorry.
Men, stop for a minute and think of your wife. Give her a hug, touch her hand and tell her that you love her.
Ok, so let me move on from here as I am crying and sometimes it is embarassing as my people are all around me. They know when I am writing because of it. I cry, ok. Alot.
So yesterday, we found out that Phil, the Chaplins Assistant is being called back to another Unit for three months. He will be going to another base to work. The good news is that he will have time to work on an Online Degree to become a Chaplin. Praise God. The bad news is that he will be missed by all of us. He is a fine young man and my friend. He may not know it but he has been a Chaplin for me several times over the last few months.
An interesting thing happened, thanks God, I posted yesterday afternoon this on my status on Face Book. "a candle loses nothing by lighting another candle." He is not a friend on Facebook, and last night as we discussed his move he stated the same quote in regards to how he sees this move. Coincidence? Praise God.
So, just some prayer request for me. You can guess what they are. Also for Justin, the Soldier who is seeking God. And for my family, that they just go to Jesus for all of their needs.
Bless you all.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Moving Day
This morning I will be brief as we will be moving out of our tent into a temporary location. This is to facilitate the tear down of our camp and the rebuild on the East side. In all the entire process needs to be completed by Christmas. To note it was nice to be able to pack everything that I own in about ten minutes. The only thing that became some worry was the desk that I have. It will not fit into the temporary tent as they are much smaller than what we have now. I know it will all work out though.
To follow up on yesterday's Blog, I was able to return at lunch time to see Justin again. He had just begun to read the Bible I had left him in the morning. Amazingly, as soon as I started to walk up to him the same Afghan man from the morning, saw me and came to where were standing. He immediately began to engauge us in conversation and very quickly moved to things regarding Faith.
This time I was more focussed on the Afghan man. I figured that it was also an opportunity that kept presenting itself so I might as well give it a shot and Wittness to him. Now let me say, that without the interaction in the morning and me seeing how the Lord equipped me I would not have attempted this in the afternoon. The point is that Faith is strengthend through action!
Anyway, I said a prayer as the man explained how his Uncle was on his Pilgramage to Mecca. I responded with my understanding of how important that was. I then asked about this clensing him of his sins. That he would now have all his past sins removed because of this journey. He agreed and explained the details. Here was the opportunity to wittness Christ, one deep breath and off to new territory. "Yes, I understand, this is what Jesus Christ has done for me. He has victory over sin, victory over all sin. He has made me clean and now I can fellowship again with God, with Allah." Whoo! I had done it, I put it out there and I felt very releaved.
You could see a definate change in his face and demeener. He looked at the ground for a minute and then asked Justin if he would come and join them for lunch. Justin stated that he had some things to do and that he would see them all later. Justin and I turned to walk towards the DFAC and the man followed for a bit but said good bye at the edge of the yard.
As Justin and I walked we discussed the aspect of cleansing of sin. How for the Musslim it was through works and actions. Where they prayed, how they prayed, that they have washed the appropriate number of times. But I draw the contrast, that no amount of washing the external could clean the internal sins. That they could wash seven times the hands that have been defiled but could do nothing of the same thing to wash their hearts of hatred or adultry, these being larger sin. But through Jesus Christ's death on the Cross He has paid for all of our sins. That our hearts of love and acceptance of this is why God gives us the gift of salavation, the free gift of salvation. Justin understood this.
As we finished our walk we ran into the Chaplin. I introduced them to each other and for a few minutes they talked. Their units are both from the same area and so this became the topic at hand. I said my goodbyes to Justin at this point and walked for a moment with the Chaplin. I informed him that Justin was searching for answers and that I had invited him to the Chapel. I also asked him to pray for him as he was being sought after by the Muslim men and that Satan had been attepting to keep him from Christ.
I ask again that each of you who read this also pray for this young man. That you pray for all of us here. Be blessed today.
To follow up on yesterday's Blog, I was able to return at lunch time to see Justin again. He had just begun to read the Bible I had left him in the morning. Amazingly, as soon as I started to walk up to him the same Afghan man from the morning, saw me and came to where were standing. He immediately began to engauge us in conversation and very quickly moved to things regarding Faith.
This time I was more focussed on the Afghan man. I figured that it was also an opportunity that kept presenting itself so I might as well give it a shot and Wittness to him. Now let me say, that without the interaction in the morning and me seeing how the Lord equipped me I would not have attempted this in the afternoon. The point is that Faith is strengthend through action!
Anyway, I said a prayer as the man explained how his Uncle was on his Pilgramage to Mecca. I responded with my understanding of how important that was. I then asked about this clensing him of his sins. That he would now have all his past sins removed because of this journey. He agreed and explained the details. Here was the opportunity to wittness Christ, one deep breath and off to new territory. "Yes, I understand, this is what Jesus Christ has done for me. He has victory over sin, victory over all sin. He has made me clean and now I can fellowship again with God, with Allah." Whoo! I had done it, I put it out there and I felt very releaved.
You could see a definate change in his face and demeener. He looked at the ground for a minute and then asked Justin if he would come and join them for lunch. Justin stated that he had some things to do and that he would see them all later. Justin and I turned to walk towards the DFAC and the man followed for a bit but said good bye at the edge of the yard.
As Justin and I walked we discussed the aspect of cleansing of sin. How for the Musslim it was through works and actions. Where they prayed, how they prayed, that they have washed the appropriate number of times. But I draw the contrast, that no amount of washing the external could clean the internal sins. That they could wash seven times the hands that have been defiled but could do nothing of the same thing to wash their hearts of hatred or adultry, these being larger sin. But through Jesus Christ's death on the Cross He has paid for all of our sins. That our hearts of love and acceptance of this is why God gives us the gift of salavation, the free gift of salvation. Justin understood this.
As we finished our walk we ran into the Chaplin. I introduced them to each other and for a few minutes they talked. Their units are both from the same area and so this became the topic at hand. I said my goodbyes to Justin at this point and walked for a moment with the Chaplin. I informed him that Justin was searching for answers and that I had invited him to the Chapel. I also asked him to pray for him as he was being sought after by the Muslim men and that Satan had been attepting to keep him from Christ.
I ask again that each of you who read this also pray for this young man. That you pray for all of us here. Be blessed today.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
A Testimony
I will say it again and again, there is always an attack before a blessing. Over and over again this holds true for me here.
Yesterday I was having a very regular morning. Work was moving along normally and I was feeling fine. I had made my early morning phone call to my Accountability Group back home. I had done all of my morning devotions and prayers. Even wrote a good Blog as the words came out with ease.
At lunch time I decided that I would go and read a lttle of the book, Unlocking the Islam Code. I had not read any of this in a few days and thought that it might be a good idea as I was waiting for Hassan to deliver me a copy of the Koran to read. I wanted to be prepared in case a conversation came from the interaction.
As I went to my room I figured today I would be comfortable and lay in my bed and read rather than sitting in the uncomforatable metal chair at the desk. No sooner did my head hit the pillow was I overwhelmed with the feeling that something was wrong. I began to think of Catherine and the kids. I even thought to get up and go outside and do something else for the hour. My stomach ached and my mind was just astir.
I didn't react in the way my mind was telling me I should. I laid there and asked the Lord to be with me. I rebuked Satan in the name of Jesus Christ and stated that He wwas protecting me. I even thought for a moment that even faith as little as a mustard seed was aenough to rebuke the evil that I felt. I prayed a little for my family and then I began to read the book. Within a few seconds the feelings were gone and I was ok.
So after an hour of reading, and an occasional knodding off, I got up and went back to work. Again the afternoon was uneventful and I worked with ease. A little early Catherine called which always brightens the day for me and we spoke for a few minutes before she went to do her prayers and wake the kids.
At around 16:00 I began to think about the things that I had read regarding what a Muslim would relate with in wittnessing of the Christian Faith. With this I decided that I would go over early to the East side and stop by and see Hassan. I figured asking for the Koran would help facilitate an opportunity to wittness to him. So off I went.
When I arrived at the CRSP Yard and walked up into the overhang area where I immediately saw a new face of a yound soldier. I figured he was just visiting so I moved past everyone and went into to Hassan to say hello. We spoke for a few minutes util Chandel brought me some tea. This interupted my time with Hassan so I moved outside figuring that I would come back to the purpose I was there for after I finished the tea.
Just outside of the office that Hassan was at, on the table, was the book A Case for Faith. As Isaw it I asked who's it was and the new Soldier said it was his. "Oh", I said, "I like that book. Lee Strobel, I have read a few of his books". "Yeah, my uncle gave me this before I left home. I just started it. I also have the Toa in there".
Ok, for anybody that is not seeing the writing on the wall, these are the opportunites that God lays out in front of us. These are the opportunities that we as Christians pray for in the mornings. These are the moments that we get to make a choice, do I step forward in faith or do I get worried that this fine young Soldier may get offended if I begin to wittness to him. What choice would you make?
I began to pray in my head, Lord let my words be yours and this moment be what you have it be. "The case for Christ was actually the book that my now Pastor gave me before I was saved. It lead to me accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior." This started our conversation that went for approximately a half hour right there in the open air porch of the offices.
This youndg man was searching for God. He was looking in every area he could. Chineese philosphy, Mormonism, he even stated that the Muslims had been speaking to him about becoming a Muslim since he arrived in the yard. He spoke several times regarding finding a Religion. Reading about things that would tell him what the answer was. He was lost and wondering and the enemy was standing at the gate.
The very amazing thing was that what I had read at lunch was the very information that I needed to explain to the Soldier some of the fundamental reasons the Muslims had asked , and told him, what they had during his conversations with them. I came equipped to discuss some very pertinent issues with this Soldier. I came with ammunition against the enemy and Satan knew this was to happen, that is why I had the attach earlier.
He had alot of questions, I gave him all the best answers I could. We had several interuptions, but I continued to move past them and continued the conversation with him. We covered many areas of the difference betwwen religion and Faith. That Faith was his personal relationship with God and that nobody could tell him how that should be. That was for him and God to determine and that no man could determine that for him. In the end I gave him a challenge. I stated to him that if each night as he lay down to sleep he were to ask God to be in charge of his life. That if earnestly asked for Him to lead him to the one true answer that he was searching for that God would give it to Him.
See, I know that there is only one way, and that if this man is truly searching for that then the only answer that he will need is the one that God places in his heart, that Jesus Christ came, He died on the cross to attone for all of our sins, that He was resurrected on the third day and now sits with God in heaven. Through our Faith in this, God will pour out His free gift of salvation to us and will be changed forever as we follow Him.
You were given the power and authority to speak in Jesus name. You are equipped perfectly for any situation that the Spirit leads you into, He won't give you anything you can't handle. You also have to believe that you are saving people from their eternal death, from eternal seperation from God. That Jesus has bridged that seperation that was created at the Fall and that we can now stand with Christ in fellowship with God.
Now normally I would have ended the story here, but it continued today before I could Post this...
Now again, there is no doubt in my mind that this man was the very reason why Satan was attaching me in the afternoon yesterday. Even today the enemy placed obstacles in my path and this mans path. This soldier was overseeing some local men in the installation of a fenceline within the FOB. I went to him as I was going to give him a copy of the New Testiment, Finding God, so that he could begin reading it if he liked as he read A Case For Faith.
As I drove up to the work site one of the local men, a young Afghan approached the truck. I said hello and told him that I was looking for this paticular soldier. He pointed to where he sat then followed me to him. I said hello and as he stood I explaine dthat I brought him a New Testiment to use. Just after he took it in his hand the local man reached and grabbed the Bible. I continued to speak with the Soldier and the Afghan man and another offered me tea, which aI graciously accepted.
Here I am in an awkward spot now. I have to get the Bible back from the Afghan man and try to continue to speak with the Soldier. Just then the Afghan man stated "Oh, finding God" it was now obvious that he could read some English. "Yes, it is the Jahil." "Jahil!" he said back as he took it now and sat with the older man who had given me the tea. I continued now to ignore that and speak again to the Soldier about the benefit of this Bible as it could help answer questions for him.
Then the Afghan man approached again, now with the other man. He was now nervous as he bagan to speak about his duty to explain about God. At this point I just prayed again, that the Spirit would lead. Praise God, he did. Through a brief conversation regarding God, even about the "Prophet " Jesus. I was able to explain that I was here to give this Soldier a gift , this "Jihil" so that he would know about the prophet Jesus. Also that I hoped that God would lead this man to the one true Faith as He saw fit, not because of my words. At that the man handed the Bible back to the Soldier. I finished my tea, said thank you to the Afghan men and then said good bye to the Soldier letting him know that he could find me if he needed me. At that I left.
A few things in conclusion. First, get out of the training grounds of the comfortable "Church" and apply what the Lord has taught you. I think He made it quiet clear that this was His expectation of us. Secondly, when an opportunity presents itself, take it. Lastly, trust God. Every time that I do this, especially when it is at the moment when I need it most, it works out better.
Now at a minimum, if you have gotten to this point, pray for this young Soldier. You don't need to know his name, God does, but pray please. Praise God.
Yesterday I was having a very regular morning. Work was moving along normally and I was feeling fine. I had made my early morning phone call to my Accountability Group back home. I had done all of my morning devotions and prayers. Even wrote a good Blog as the words came out with ease.
At lunch time I decided that I would go and read a lttle of the book, Unlocking the Islam Code. I had not read any of this in a few days and thought that it might be a good idea as I was waiting for Hassan to deliver me a copy of the Koran to read. I wanted to be prepared in case a conversation came from the interaction.
As I went to my room I figured today I would be comfortable and lay in my bed and read rather than sitting in the uncomforatable metal chair at the desk. No sooner did my head hit the pillow was I overwhelmed with the feeling that something was wrong. I began to think of Catherine and the kids. I even thought to get up and go outside and do something else for the hour. My stomach ached and my mind was just astir.
I didn't react in the way my mind was telling me I should. I laid there and asked the Lord to be with me. I rebuked Satan in the name of Jesus Christ and stated that He wwas protecting me. I even thought for a moment that even faith as little as a mustard seed was aenough to rebuke the evil that I felt. I prayed a little for my family and then I began to read the book. Within a few seconds the feelings were gone and I was ok.
So after an hour of reading, and an occasional knodding off, I got up and went back to work. Again the afternoon was uneventful and I worked with ease. A little early Catherine called which always brightens the day for me and we spoke for a few minutes before she went to do her prayers and wake the kids.
At around 16:00 I began to think about the things that I had read regarding what a Muslim would relate with in wittnessing of the Christian Faith. With this I decided that I would go over early to the East side and stop by and see Hassan. I figured asking for the Koran would help facilitate an opportunity to wittness to him. So off I went.
When I arrived at the CRSP Yard and walked up into the overhang area where I immediately saw a new face of a yound soldier. I figured he was just visiting so I moved past everyone and went into to Hassan to say hello. We spoke for a few minutes util Chandel brought me some tea. This interupted my time with Hassan so I moved outside figuring that I would come back to the purpose I was there for after I finished the tea.
Just outside of the office that Hassan was at, on the table, was the book A Case for Faith. As Isaw it I asked who's it was and the new Soldier said it was his. "Oh", I said, "I like that book. Lee Strobel, I have read a few of his books". "Yeah, my uncle gave me this before I left home. I just started it. I also have the Toa in there".
Ok, for anybody that is not seeing the writing on the wall, these are the opportunites that God lays out in front of us. These are the opportunities that we as Christians pray for in the mornings. These are the moments that we get to make a choice, do I step forward in faith or do I get worried that this fine young Soldier may get offended if I begin to wittness to him. What choice would you make?
I began to pray in my head, Lord let my words be yours and this moment be what you have it be. "The case for Christ was actually the book that my now Pastor gave me before I was saved. It lead to me accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior." This started our conversation that went for approximately a half hour right there in the open air porch of the offices.
This youndg man was searching for God. He was looking in every area he could. Chineese philosphy, Mormonism, he even stated that the Muslims had been speaking to him about becoming a Muslim since he arrived in the yard. He spoke several times regarding finding a Religion. Reading about things that would tell him what the answer was. He was lost and wondering and the enemy was standing at the gate.
The very amazing thing was that what I had read at lunch was the very information that I needed to explain to the Soldier some of the fundamental reasons the Muslims had asked , and told him, what they had during his conversations with them. I came equipped to discuss some very pertinent issues with this Soldier. I came with ammunition against the enemy and Satan knew this was to happen, that is why I had the attach earlier.
He had alot of questions, I gave him all the best answers I could. We had several interuptions, but I continued to move past them and continued the conversation with him. We covered many areas of the difference betwwen religion and Faith. That Faith was his personal relationship with God and that nobody could tell him how that should be. That was for him and God to determine and that no man could determine that for him. In the end I gave him a challenge. I stated to him that if each night as he lay down to sleep he were to ask God to be in charge of his life. That if earnestly asked for Him to lead him to the one true answer that he was searching for that God would give it to Him.
See, I know that there is only one way, and that if this man is truly searching for that then the only answer that he will need is the one that God places in his heart, that Jesus Christ came, He died on the cross to attone for all of our sins, that He was resurrected on the third day and now sits with God in heaven. Through our Faith in this, God will pour out His free gift of salvation to us and will be changed forever as we follow Him.
You were given the power and authority to speak in Jesus name. You are equipped perfectly for any situation that the Spirit leads you into, He won't give you anything you can't handle. You also have to believe that you are saving people from their eternal death, from eternal seperation from God. That Jesus has bridged that seperation that was created at the Fall and that we can now stand with Christ in fellowship with God.
Now normally I would have ended the story here, but it continued today before I could Post this...
Now again, there is no doubt in my mind that this man was the very reason why Satan was attaching me in the afternoon yesterday. Even today the enemy placed obstacles in my path and this mans path. This soldier was overseeing some local men in the installation of a fenceline within the FOB. I went to him as I was going to give him a copy of the New Testiment, Finding God, so that he could begin reading it if he liked as he read A Case For Faith.
As I drove up to the work site one of the local men, a young Afghan approached the truck. I said hello and told him that I was looking for this paticular soldier. He pointed to where he sat then followed me to him. I said hello and as he stood I explaine dthat I brought him a New Testiment to use. Just after he took it in his hand the local man reached and grabbed the Bible. I continued to speak with the Soldier and the Afghan man and another offered me tea, which aI graciously accepted.
Here I am in an awkward spot now. I have to get the Bible back from the Afghan man and try to continue to speak with the Soldier. Just then the Afghan man stated "Oh, finding God" it was now obvious that he could read some English. "Yes, it is the Jahil." "Jahil!" he said back as he took it now and sat with the older man who had given me the tea. I continued now to ignore that and speak again to the Soldier about the benefit of this Bible as it could help answer questions for him.
Then the Afghan man approached again, now with the other man. He was now nervous as he bagan to speak about his duty to explain about God. At this point I just prayed again, that the Spirit would lead. Praise God, he did. Through a brief conversation regarding God, even about the "Prophet " Jesus. I was able to explain that I was here to give this Soldier a gift , this "Jihil" so that he would know about the prophet Jesus. Also that I hoped that God would lead this man to the one true Faith as He saw fit, not because of my words. At that the man handed the Bible back to the Soldier. I finished my tea, said thank you to the Afghan men and then said good bye to the Soldier letting him know that he could find me if he needed me. At that I left.
A few things in conclusion. First, get out of the training grounds of the comfortable "Church" and apply what the Lord has taught you. I think He made it quiet clear that this was His expectation of us. Secondly, when an opportunity presents itself, take it. Lastly, trust God. Every time that I do this, especially when it is at the moment when I need it most, it works out better.
Now at a minimum, if you have gotten to this point, pray for this young Soldier. You don't need to know his name, God does, but pray please. Praise God.
Monday, November 1, 2010
A Snapshot
The other day my mother commented on my post "80's Music Trivia". She said she was glad to see that I was having fun with something. That she recalled that when I was young I used to laugh and giggle and do silly things. That she remembered that part of me and it spoke into her heart. She said that, "it seems that so many of your days have no laughter in them". This of course has had me thinking, is this true? So today, it is on my heart, have I lost my laughter?
I want to start by saying, Mom, I love you also, so very much. From that one sentence I can see into your heart and know the concern that you feel. I know that you only want one of your children to have joy in their life and not have to think that they are sad in any way. I think that often of my own children. Maybe sometimes too much. You and dad did a great job with us boys and we had a ggod home. I messed a lot of that up as I walked my own path. Nothing in me ever thinks that I was not happy as a youth.
I know how your heart is, as I examine mine over and over again. I ask myself what is it that is in me is it joy or sadness. To be honest, I think that you are correct as most of my days have no laughter in them. I see however that there is a big difference betwen laughter and joy.
It is very difficult for me to be seperated from my family and friends, my church. Everyday I sit and wait for the small interactions that I may have with Catherine or the kids. Some days this waiting is torturious others days it is not. Things seem always here to be exagerated for me, emotions, time, everything. A few times a week I speak with others, my mens group, Frank, you mom and dad. Those are the times for me that are oasis in the dessert. They are times when my mind can truly settle. I can close my eyes and have comfort as I think of home.
My writing tends to focus on the contrasts of this place and what I see, however, they become just a single moment of my day for the readers. You get to see what may amount to a brief thought, expanded to several paragraphs of words. You see my life only through this small window and from that, piece together my life. You only see my life through a snapshot. It must be tough only to have that snapshot, but understand it is only just that. Just like the snapshot , it has no meaning unless you look at the picture. So I will dive deeper and hopefully you will understand me.
On the surface I derive no simple pleasures from this place. Most of what I hold dear in this world is on the outside of the fence and far away. The things that are the closest to me are the things that are the furthest away. This, in the snapshot of my life that you see, must take up most of the picture. It is in fact the background of everything that you see. There are details that are within the picture but at first glance they are not seen.
If you look closer, you will see the details of my life here. You will see Chandel, my new Brother in Christ, whom I love. You will see his words that cut into my heart, "Sir, what will happen to me when you leave?" You will see the joy that I have in knowing that this man now has a relationship with Jesus Christ. That he is becoming changed from what the world would have seen as a good man, to what the world will see as a Godly Chritian Man. You will see that he and I will be connected forever because of this time the Lord has given us.
As you look again, you will see the details of the Kenyan Evangalist, Robert, who has been here with me from the begining. He is a Rock for me and trusted by me for prayer and fellowship. You will see how, in Gods ultimate plan, brought us together and then through him Chandel was Saved. You will see also the details of the Ministry that Robert and I have here for those that have no time for other prayer.
In this snapshot you can see Navin, Raga, Kishan and BK. All men who have sat with me and prayed with me and now know of the Lord Jesus Christ. That each has had a seed planted in them through me by the Holy Spirit and with that the seed may grow and they may also one day call Jesus Lord and Savior.
You will see, all of the Chaplins assistants, Richard, Phil and Matthew whom I have fellowshiped with that are such fine young men. They, each in their own way have strengthend me in the Lord. They have been there as men to speak into my life when I needed them and become trusted with the details of that life.
With them, all of the other Soldiers and men. Those that have come in and out of each day here. Some whom I have written about and some who have just passed briefly in mention. They all are the fine details that are only seen with a very closes look but no less important than anything else in the snapshot.
You will also see the small things that make up the foreground of the snapshot. That I have met hundreds of individuals that I would not have met before, from all around the world. That I have made some of them my friends and thus my world has gotten smaller. That each one of them is now a memeory in my heart that will never leave. That they make up the colors of the photo.
You will see also in the foreground of the snapshot that I have grown so much for the Lord. That my dependance is more and more becoming not on man but in the Lord. That no book nor sermon could ever show me what God has shown me here. That as I walked the path for Him, that I stepped out in service for Him, He has given me my ultimate trial. That this trial will, to this point, bring me more growth than anything else I have ever done. That If I can withstand but a single year here, then anything back home should be simple.
In that, you will see that, each day I must wake my self up by stepping in faith. I must ask the Lord to show me what He have me see. That I must remind myself that He is in control and that I am but His servant. You will see that in that I have Joy that I am His and He will take care of me through all of this.
Each day you only see the snapshot of my life. Like a snapshot unless you look close enough you may only see the big picture. But unless you stop, and examine it closely, you may never see all of the details. You will not see the little things that add color and dimension. You must stop, and most of all, look at the perspective of the photograph and why the snapshot was taken. What was the intent of the photographer? Then you will see more.
I find my Joy in the Lord and what He is doing in my life. That is my perspective. I believe that my life is His and that I must follow His commision on my life, that is why I have taken the photo. I am blessed by Him each day in many ways, those are the details. I want my life to be a wittness and that is why I share the picture. I find my joy there.
Mom, know in heart, from this day forward that laughter is only the external part of happiness and joy. For me, I am happier now then I had been for many years. I look to my Joy in the Lord, and to some, maybe, that is strange, but to me it is my life. I hope one day that you can understand this, but for now all you have is my word on it. For now, enjoy the snapshots for what they are, enjoy them from my perspective.
Lord, may you continue to lead my Life as I give it up to you.
I want to start by saying, Mom, I love you also, so very much. From that one sentence I can see into your heart and know the concern that you feel. I know that you only want one of your children to have joy in their life and not have to think that they are sad in any way. I think that often of my own children. Maybe sometimes too much. You and dad did a great job with us boys and we had a ggod home. I messed a lot of that up as I walked my own path. Nothing in me ever thinks that I was not happy as a youth.
I know how your heart is, as I examine mine over and over again. I ask myself what is it that is in me is it joy or sadness. To be honest, I think that you are correct as most of my days have no laughter in them. I see however that there is a big difference betwen laughter and joy.
It is very difficult for me to be seperated from my family and friends, my church. Everyday I sit and wait for the small interactions that I may have with Catherine or the kids. Some days this waiting is torturious others days it is not. Things seem always here to be exagerated for me, emotions, time, everything. A few times a week I speak with others, my mens group, Frank, you mom and dad. Those are the times for me that are oasis in the dessert. They are times when my mind can truly settle. I can close my eyes and have comfort as I think of home.
My writing tends to focus on the contrasts of this place and what I see, however, they become just a single moment of my day for the readers. You get to see what may amount to a brief thought, expanded to several paragraphs of words. You see my life only through this small window and from that, piece together my life. You only see my life through a snapshot. It must be tough only to have that snapshot, but understand it is only just that. Just like the snapshot , it has no meaning unless you look at the picture. So I will dive deeper and hopefully you will understand me.
On the surface I derive no simple pleasures from this place. Most of what I hold dear in this world is on the outside of the fence and far away. The things that are the closest to me are the things that are the furthest away. This, in the snapshot of my life that you see, must take up most of the picture. It is in fact the background of everything that you see. There are details that are within the picture but at first glance they are not seen.
If you look closer, you will see the details of my life here. You will see Chandel, my new Brother in Christ, whom I love. You will see his words that cut into my heart, "Sir, what will happen to me when you leave?" You will see the joy that I have in knowing that this man now has a relationship with Jesus Christ. That he is becoming changed from what the world would have seen as a good man, to what the world will see as a Godly Chritian Man. You will see that he and I will be connected forever because of this time the Lord has given us.
As you look again, you will see the details of the Kenyan Evangalist, Robert, who has been here with me from the begining. He is a Rock for me and trusted by me for prayer and fellowship. You will see how, in Gods ultimate plan, brought us together and then through him Chandel was Saved. You will see also the details of the Ministry that Robert and I have here for those that have no time for other prayer.
In this snapshot you can see Navin, Raga, Kishan and BK. All men who have sat with me and prayed with me and now know of the Lord Jesus Christ. That each has had a seed planted in them through me by the Holy Spirit and with that the seed may grow and they may also one day call Jesus Lord and Savior.
You will see, all of the Chaplins assistants, Richard, Phil and Matthew whom I have fellowshiped with that are such fine young men. They, each in their own way have strengthend me in the Lord. They have been there as men to speak into my life when I needed them and become trusted with the details of that life.
With them, all of the other Soldiers and men. Those that have come in and out of each day here. Some whom I have written about and some who have just passed briefly in mention. They all are the fine details that are only seen with a very closes look but no less important than anything else in the snapshot.
You will also see the small things that make up the foreground of the snapshot. That I have met hundreds of individuals that I would not have met before, from all around the world. That I have made some of them my friends and thus my world has gotten smaller. That each one of them is now a memeory in my heart that will never leave. That they make up the colors of the photo.
You will see also in the foreground of the snapshot that I have grown so much for the Lord. That my dependance is more and more becoming not on man but in the Lord. That no book nor sermon could ever show me what God has shown me here. That as I walked the path for Him, that I stepped out in service for Him, He has given me my ultimate trial. That this trial will, to this point, bring me more growth than anything else I have ever done. That If I can withstand but a single year here, then anything back home should be simple.
In that, you will see that, each day I must wake my self up by stepping in faith. I must ask the Lord to show me what He have me see. That I must remind myself that He is in control and that I am but His servant. You will see that in that I have Joy that I am His and He will take care of me through all of this.
Each day you only see the snapshot of my life. Like a snapshot unless you look close enough you may only see the big picture. But unless you stop, and examine it closely, you may never see all of the details. You will not see the little things that add color and dimension. You must stop, and most of all, look at the perspective of the photograph and why the snapshot was taken. What was the intent of the photographer? Then you will see more.
I find my Joy in the Lord and what He is doing in my life. That is my perspective. I believe that my life is His and that I must follow His commision on my life, that is why I have taken the photo. I am blessed by Him each day in many ways, those are the details. I want my life to be a wittness and that is why I share the picture. I find my joy there.
Mom, know in heart, from this day forward that laughter is only the external part of happiness and joy. For me, I am happier now then I had been for many years. I look to my Joy in the Lord, and to some, maybe, that is strange, but to me it is my life. I hope one day that you can understand this, but for now all you have is my word on it. For now, enjoy the snapshots for what they are, enjoy them from my perspective.
Lord, may you continue to lead my Life as I give it up to you.
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